Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Elk
MOUNTAIN LIONS
These large cats, usually solid tan or beige, are also known as
panthers, cougars, and pumas. They are occasionally seen in both Bryce Canyon
and Zion national parks. However, there have been more sightings in Zion than in
Bryce Canyon in recent years, and it is believed that there are quite a few in the
backcountry areas of Kolob Canyon. Because they avoid humans, your best chance
of seeing one is in a remote area or along a quiet roadway late at night. At Bryce
Canyon, you are most likely to see a mountain lion in the southern part of the park,
in the backcountry along the Riggs Spring Loop Trail. Skilled hunters, mountain
lions prefer to catch deer, and a single mountain lion can kill and consume a mule
deer a week, if deer are plentiful. They also hunt coyotes, beavers, small mammals,
and birds. Mountain lions will usually stash the leftovers from their kills, covering
them with brush, sticks, and leaves, for later consumption.
